We use cookies to improve your experience of our website. Cookies perform functions like recognising you each time you visit and delivering advertising messages that are relevant to you. Read more here

Quick links

Funny People

Video clips are automatically supplied by broadcasters and distributors. RadioTimes.com is not responsible for the clip's contents.

Judd Apatow(2009)

139min

15 Certificate

Watchlist

ADVERTISEMENT

Review

Our Score

by Stella Papamichael

Adam Sandler built his career on dumb comedies but he's at his best when he lets the goofy mask slip to reveal a more human face. Writer/director Judd Apatow (the man behind Knocked Up and Sandler's real-life ex-roommate) gives him the ideal platform in this comedy drama, with the role of George Simmons, a self-absorbed A-list Hollywood funnyman confronting serious illness. Simmons struggles to laugh in the face of death until failing comic Ira Wright, played by Seth Rogen (doing his amiable wally routine), provides him with fresh insight. Ostensibly Wright has been hired to write jokes, but in reality Simmons fears dying alone. It may sound morbid, but the film is actually more funny than sad. By putting the spotlight on comedians offstage, Apatow milks their social awkwardness for humour while also inspiring sympathy for the childish star. A romantic subplot tips the film way off balance in the second half of the film, but otherwise it's a pleasure to be in the company of these funny people.

Summary

Successful but lonely comedian George Simmons learns he has less than a year to live. While performing at a comedy club, he meets an aspiring stand-up who is still trying to figure his act out. George takes the fledgling comic under his wing, offering him a job as a joke writer - but the real reason for hiring him is to avoid dying alone. Comedy drama, starring Adam Sandler and Seth Rogen.